A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. While the market has shifted in favour of buyers (meaning fewer pressure to waive inspections), understanding what a home inspection covers — and what it doesn't — is essential.
What a Home Inspection Covers
- Structure: Foundation walls, floors, roof structure, and load-bearing elements
- Exterior: Siding, windows, doors, grading, drainage, and driveways
- Roofing: Shingles, flashing, gutters, and estimated remaining life
- Plumbing: Pipes, fixtures, water heater, water pressure, and drainage
- Electrical: Panel, wiring type, outlets, switches, and safety concerns
- HVAC: Furnace, air conditioning, ductwork, and ventilation
- Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, and visible insulation
- Basement: Moisture, cracks, insulation, and sump pump
What It Does NOT Cover
- Behind walls (mould, hidden damage)
- Septic systems (requires separate inspection)
- Well water quality (requires testing)
- Detailed pest/termite inspection
- Pool and spa equipment
- Environmental hazards (asbestos, radon, lead paint)
Red Flags to Watch For
- Foundation cracks: Horizontal cracks are more concerning than vertical ones
- Water damage: Stains on ceilings/walls, musty odours, efflorescence on basement walls
- Knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring: May affect insurance eligibility and cost
- Roof condition: A roof replacement can cost $10,000-$25,000+
- HVAC age: Furnaces and ACs typically last 15-20 years
Choosing an Inspector
In Ontario, home inspectors are regulated. Look for inspectors who are members of professional associations, carry errors and omissions insurance, and provide detailed written reports with photos. Expect to pay between $400-$600 for a standard home inspection.
Using the Report
Your inspection report is a negotiating tool. You can request the seller to fix issues, reduce the price, or provide a credit at closing. In today's buyer-friendly market, sellers are more willing to negotiate on inspection findings than they were during the bidding war era.
Need help navigating the inspection process? Our team is here to guide you through every step of your purchase.